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A decades-old bridge on Missouri Route Z south of Orrick will soon be limited to a single lane as crews prepare for its eventual replacement. The Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) will implement a one-lane bridge crossing at Missouri Route Z over Keeney Creek approximately one mile south of Orrick beginning at approximately 6 a.m.

MIRANDA JAMISON Lead Reporter Editor’s note: This is the first of a two-part series about Missouri Valley Community Action Agency’s programs in Ray County which help families overcome poverty through early education, childcare and support services. Families across Ray County often face the same daunting question: how do you get ahead when there isn’t enough to cover childcare, food and the basic necessities? For many, the answer starts with a quiet building on the edge of Richmond, where staff members greet each parent and child by name.

MIRANDA JAMISON Safety upgrades costing thousands of dollars have transformed the Ray County Jail as officials work to address persistent staffing shortages and rising youth substance use. Sheriff Gary Blackwell recently informed the Ray County Coalition the jail facility underwent approximately $100,000 in repairs after being shut down early this year due to safety concerns.

A bridge south of Orrick that has carried Missouri Route Z traffic for decades is nearing the end of its service life and transportation officials want to hear from the community before it is replaced.

Editor’s note: This story is the first in a two-part series examining information Missouri health leaders recently discussed about sweeping federal Medicaid cuts. Part One details the proposed reductions, potential impacts on rural hospitals and urgent warnings from administrators across the region.